Tumbler

Art Historical Context

This delicate tumbler, crafted from pressed glass between 1830 and 1870, exemplifies everyday American ingenuity during the nation's industrial boom. Standing just 3¾ inches tall with a diameter of 3⅜ inches, it was designed for practical use—likely holding water, whiskey, or punch at the family table—yet its molded form hints at decorative flair typical of era's mass-produced glassware. Pressed glass revolutionized American manufacturing in the 19th century. Molten glass was poured into intricate metal molds and compressed under high pressure, enabling affordable replication of elaborate patterns that once required expensive hand-cutting. This technique, pioneered in New England factories, democratized beauty, allowing middle-class households to enjoy ornate designs inspired by classical motifs or nature, bridging utility and artistry. Housed in The American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this anonymous gem—gifted by Mrs. Emily Winthrop Miles in 1946—captures a pivotal moment in U.S. cultural history. It reflects the era's optimism and innovation, turning humble drinking vessels into subtle statements of prosperity and style. Visitors, imagine sipping from it amid the clink of a bustling 1850s parlor!